Strong winds spark wildfires, power outages across Oklahoma

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Strong winds caused multiple problems across central Oklahoma on Sunday, including a wildfire near Edmond that burned about 50 acres and major power damage along Interstate 35 in Norman that forced lane closures. In Beckham County, a large grass fire north of Sayre prompted temporary evacuations as multiple fire departments worked to contain the blaze.

Why it matters

The severe weather highlights the growing threat of wildfires and infrastructure damage from high winds in Oklahoma, which has seen an increase in extreme weather events in recent years. The incidents also underscore the need for coordinated emergency response and preparedness efforts to protect public safety during these types of natural disasters.

The details

In Edmond, nearly a dozen fire departments battled the 50-acre wildfire near Highway 234 and North Henney that started around 11:30 a.m. Strong winds prevented firefighters from using drones, forcing them to rely on ground resources with help from the state forestry department. In Norman, the same powerful winds snapped power poles in half and knocked down power lines across Interstate 35, leading to a highway closure that lasted until just after midnight as utility crews worked to repair the damage. Meanwhile, a large grass fire that sparked north of Sayre prompted officials to evacuate residents to a local school for safety before the order was lifted about an hour and a half later.

• The Edmond wildfire started around 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
• The power line damage along I-35 in Norman occurred on Sunday, March 15, 2026, with lanes reopening shortly after midnight.
• The grass fire near Sayre began around noon on Sunday, March 15, 2026, leading to temporary evacuations.